Casey's Names Its First-Ever Agency of Record

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Casey's General Stores Inc., named Barkley, one of the largest employee-owned advertising agencies in the United States, as its first-ever agency of record for the brand. The move follows an extensive corporate-led review of agencies.

The initial scope of services for the Kansas, City, Mo.-based agency will include brand strategy, media planning and creative development, encompassing broadcast, print, online, in-store, sponsorships and local store marketing, according to the announcement.

"As Casey's continues to experience tremendous growth both in store count and market footprint, we felt it was the right time to engage outside expertise," said Terry Handley, COO of Casey's General Stores. "We're looking for a long-term relationship with a partner who can help fuel brand awareness throughout our market area. We believe Barkley can do that."

Michael Richardson, Casey's vice president of marketing, said the decision came down to Barkley's wide and deep level of expertise. "With fresh thinking across the board, they proved that they are the right partner with the necessary resources to help build the Casey's brand today and into the future," he added.

Jeff King, CEO of Barkley, said they look forward to working together to take the brand foundation Casey's has built and enhance and grow it. "I grew up with Casey's. It's an incredible brand and an important part of the community fabric in towns they serve," King stated. "This is a great opportunity for Barkley."

Casey's is a recognized leader in the convenience industry and one of the top 10 pizza chains in the nation. The company operates more than 1,635 stores in 11 states throughout the Midwest.